The Michael Long Cup, which showcases some of the best young NT footballers is back this weekend at TIO Stadium.
This year the competition will comprise of eight Under 15 Boys teams of 24 players competing for the Cup. These teams consist of players from Alice Springs, Big Rivers Region, Darwin, Elcho Island, Gove, Tennant Creek, Tiwi Islands and the Darwin region.
For the first time in Michael Long Cup history and after a successful Talent ID Program run during the Cup weekend last year, three Under 15 Girls teams from across the Territory will play off to be the inaugural winners of the competition.
AFLNT Talent Manager, Simon Hargrave said he is looking forward to hosting and observing the promising youth players from across the Territory over Friday evening and through Saturday.
“We are excited to spot skills and gauge talent from young players from all over the Territory and continue to build our talent pool ahead of the next Cazalys NT Thunder Academy selections,” Hargrave said.
“Last year we handpicked talented Under 15 Girls from across the NT who came together for high performance and education sessions which proved successful. This year, we’re thrilled to grow the Michael Long Cup to include a Girls competition,” Hargrave said.
“For many Northern Territory footballers and officials, the Michael Long Cup provides a pathway to the Cazalys NT Thunder Academy and for some it is even the first step towards a career in the AFL or AFLW.”
Each team will play games of two halves on Friday evening and Saturday with teams competing in a finals series on Saturday afternoon commencing at 2pm at TIO Stadium.
Further information on AFLNTv live-streaming, competition structure, dates, fixture and teams participating can be found below:
